Football places intense strain on the feet and ankles, and the push-off forces used for sprinting or sudden direction changes can damage the thick tendon behind the heel. The Achilles tendon, which links the calf muscles to the heel bone, allows a player to jump, run, and accelerate. Quick bursts of speed, tackling, and uneven fields increase tension in this tendon, making a tear more likely, especially when a player lands awkwardly or the ankle twists. A rupture causes sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty standing on the toes. A podiatrist can assess the tendon, order imaging, discuss footwear that provides support, and recommend treatment such as bracing, therapy guided exercises, or surgery when needed to restore strength and mobility. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and safe, sterile treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A small growth on the bottom of the heel bone may indicate a heel spur. Patients who have plantar fasciitis may have heel spurs, and this affects the tendon that runs along the bottom of the foot. People who are afflicted with heel spurs often notice heel pain after arising in the morning, and mild relief may be found while walking. The pain may become worse if running or participating in sporting activities, and it is beneficial to rest and elevate the affected foot. It may be helpful to take anti-inflammatory medications which may partially reduce existing pain. If you have the symptoms of a heel spur, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend the correct treatment options for you, which may include custom-made orthotics.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain is common among ice skaters due to abrupt starts and stops, repetitive movements, and long hours spent on the ice. These actions place continuous stress on the ankle joints and surrounding muscles, which can lead to inflammation and discomfort. Prevention begins with using properly fitting skates that offer the right degree of flexibility to support the ankle without restricting natural movement. Strengthening and stretching exercises also help improve stability and reduce strain during skating sessions. A podiatrist can assess ankle alignment, identify overuse issues, and recommend custom supports or treatment to relieve pain and prevent further injury. If you have sustained an ankle injury from ice skating, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief, treatment and prevention tips. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing the right shoes while working in the cold weather is essential for protecting your feet, maintaining comfort, and preventing injury. Wool sneakers or high-top shoes provide warmth and flexibility, keeping feet insulated while allowing natural movement. Leather boots offer durability, support, and water resistance, making them ideal for demanding tasks in snowy or wet conditions. For active winter days, lightweight shoes with good traction provide comfort and help prevent slips or falls. Wearing proper footwear also supports circulation and reduces the risk of frostbite or cold-related discomfort. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, recommend the best shoes for your work environment, and provide guidance to prevent cold-weather foot problems. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes for the environment during your workday, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips and guide you on the correct shoes to wear.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A podiatrist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the feet and ankles. They provide care for issues such as diabetic foot complications, heel pain, bunions, nail disorders, and create custom orthotics to improve comfort and mobility. Podiatrists are also trained in foot and ankle surgery when conservative treatments are not effective. During an initial consultation, this type of doctor can perform a physical exam, review medical history, and may use imaging tests to make an accurate diagnosis. A personalized treatment plan is then developed to relieve pain and restore function. If you have developed a foot condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide the treatment that is best for you.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a frequent complaint often caused by plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, leading to sharp pain near the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning. Achilles tendonitis affects the tendon at the back of the heel, resulting in aching or stiffness that worsens with activity. Both conditions are commonly caused by overuse, wearing improper footwear, tight calf muscles, or sudden increases in physical activity. The heel may appear swollen, tender, or warm to the touch. Pain may range from mild discomfort to severe limitation in walking or exercise. A podiatrist can evaluate your condition through a physical examination, a review of your activity history, and imaging studies, if needed. Treatment may include stretching exercises, orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and changes in footwear. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if heel pain continues or worsens.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Preventing foot injuries while running begins with choosing the right running shoes that support your foot type and absorb impact. Regularly replacing worn shoes is essential because old footwear loses stability and increases stress on your feet. Warming up before a run and cooling down afterward helps your muscles adapt safely to movement. Additionally, strengthening your toes and ankles with simple exercises such as toe curls improves stability and reduces the risk of strains. A podiatrist can assess your gait, recommend proper footwear, and create a personalized plan to keep you injury-free. If you have foot or ankle pain during or after running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.